As global appetite for Korean food soars beyond classic barbecued beef into everyday staples like fried chicken and "gimbap," Korea’s agricultural ministry is launching an initiative to ensure diners abroad get authentic, high-quality meals wherever they step into a Korean eatery. The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs unveiled a five-year plan, Tuesday, to dramatically expand and overhaul its overseas restaurant certification system, targeting a total of 1,000 official seals of approval worldwide. The strategy comes as global awareness of Korean cuisine climbed to 68.6 percent in 2025, driven by the global fame of Korean pop culture and television dramas. Yet rapid international growth has brought quality control challenges, with some overseas venues trading on the name of Korean food despite lacking culinary expertise or proper ingredients. To bridge that gap, the ministry is overhauling its Excellence in Korean Dining program. Once limited to upscale establishments, the updated system introduces a two-tier rating structure that includes casual neighborhood spots. Resta